ROGER Jones is to stay on as chairman of the Welsh Development Agency to provide continuity until its merger with the Welsh Assembly in April 2006.

Mr Jones had announced his intention to step down at the end of this year to pursue other business interests but will now continue to head the agency.

Economic development minister Andrew Davies said: "As well as ensuring 'business as usual' during the merger period, Roger will play a key role in the development of a commercially focused economic powerhouse for Wales."